Who can file for unemployment in Washington - confused about eligibility requirements

You can definitely file for partial unemployment if your hours got cut! Washington ESD allows claims when you're working reduced hours. The main requirements are having enough work history in your base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters) and being able and available for work. You also need to be actively seeking work unless you're on standby with your employer.

Yeah partial unemployment is totally a thing. I filed when my restaurant cut my shifts from 40 hours to like 15 hours a week. Still got some benefits to help cover the difference.

The eligibility requirements can be confusing but here's the breakdown: You need sufficient work history, must be unemployed through no fault of your own, able and available to work, and actively seeking work. For partial claims, you can work up to a certain amount each week and still receive some benefits. The exact amount depends on your weekly benefit amount.

I had such a hard time getting through to Washington ESD when I was trying to figure out if I qualified. Spent hours on hold just to ask basic questions. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than trying to call on my own.

Don't forget about the work search requirements! Even if you qualify, you'll need to apply for jobs and keep a log unless you're on approved standby. The requirements changed recently so make sure you understand what you need to do each week.

I'm in a similar situation but I'm an independent contractor. Can contractors file for unemployment or is it just for employees?

This is all really helpful. It sounds like I should qualify since I've been working as an employee and my hours got cut through no fault of my own. Should I file online or is there another way to apply?

just make sure you file as soon as possible after your hours get cut. there's no waiting period in washington but you want to get your claim in right away

One thing to watch out for - if you're still working part-time, you need to report those earnings on your weekly claim. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on what you earn, but you can still get partial payments.

I had to deal with adjudication when I first filed because Washington ESD needed to verify my work history. Took about 3 weeks to get resolved. If that happens to you, don't panic - it's pretty normal for first-time filers.

Washington ESD's phone system is absolutely terrible. I swear they designed it to discourage people from calling. When I needed help with my claim, I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Worth every penny to avoid the frustration of their phone system.

Also remember that if you're on standby with your employer, you don't have to do job searches. But you need to have that status approved through Washington ESD - your employer has to request it.

The wage requirements can be tricky to understand. You need to have earned at least $7,000 during your base period AND earned wages in at least 2 quarters. If you don't meet the standard base period, they might use an alternate base period.

Don't forget you'll also need to register with WorkSource Washington as part of the process. It's required for most claimants unless you're on standby or have other exemptions.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS SUCH A MESS! I qualified for benefits but it took them 6 weeks to process my claim because of some stupid technical issue on their end. Meanwhile I'm behind on rent and they act like it's no big deal.

For what it's worth, I tried that Claimyr thing after reading about it here and it actually worked great. Got connected to an agent who helped clarify my eligibility questions. Much better than trying to navigate their phone system alone.

Just remember that even if you qualify and file, you might not get benefits right away if there are any issues with your claim. Could be separation issues, identity verification, or wage verification. The key is to keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.

One more thing - make sure you understand the difference between being able and available versus actively seeking work. You need to meet both requirements unless you're on approved standby status.

thanks for all the info everyone! this thread helped me understand the requirements way better than the washington esd website did

Good luck with your claim! The process can be frustrating but if you meet the requirements it's definitely worth filing. Just be patient and persistent if you run into issues.